Manic Depression

Manic Depression has evolved into the now familiar term bipolar disorder.
Bipolar disorder is a cyclic disease that brings periods of manic behavior (high energy, scattered thoughts, rapid fire responses, high strung behavior) and then a deep depressive state.

When a person is in a manic state of depression, they will do things which others consider foolish, dangerous, ridiculous or absurd without one cognitive thought regarding the consequences of their actions. It is during this time that quick intervention is prudent, professional help should be sought out by loved ones. Psychiatric evaluation or hospitalization should also be considered necessary.
The manic depression period contains the most extreme form of depression. The thought patterns are so abnormal. The person experiences the highest of highs, and then plummets to the lowest of lows.

In the beginning stages of manic depression the euphoria is such that the person has clarity of thought accompanied by the feeling that he/she can do anything in the world performing it perfectly.

The need for sleep is diminished and on this unnatural high, the person will work feverishly to accomplish near impossible goals.

As the disease progresses, the thoughts become so fast they clutter the brain to the point that all reason is left behind. In order to keep up with his/her thoughts speech becomes rapid, accelerating as the disease makes it way through the brain.

If alcohol or illegal drugs are used, the person places himself at great risk. Not only does the manic depression impair thinking patterns, but alcohol and illegal drugs further muck up the works.

Illicit affairs are explored, dangerous habits develop; all inhibitions are cast aside. The person no longer cares about taking care of himself. Hygiene is avoided, food isn’t necessary and sleep is an afterthought. Violent behavior can occur, suicide attempted as the body grows quickly out of control. Excessive clubbing, shopping sprees, gambling, dangerous sports are attempted at a frantic pace. 
Some people who are suffering with manic depression rightfully believe they are going insane. Hallucinations and delusions are common.

In the beginning stages of manic depression the period between the high euphoric portion of the disease and the crashing depressive state is only a matter of about a week.

If the person doesn’t seek professional help, or a loved one or concerned friend doesn’t intervene, the extreme behavior remains for longer periods of time.

The person is then caught up in the cycle of these extremes with almost no hope of full recovery.

Only with a balanced treatment program of antidepressants and therapy can manic depression be handled.